An avid cheese maker and nature enthusiast, Abdel Darwich is also a leading innovator in the field of mechanical systems with more than 16 years designing HVAC systems for health care, commercial, industrial, and K-12 buildings. After graduating from the American University in Beirut, Darwich obtained his master’s of science in mechanical engineering with an emphasis on heat transfer from Boston University. Darwich established himself as an associate principal within 4 years of starting at his current employer, Guttmann & Blaevoet. More recently, Darwich received commendation in 2013 as he was given an international level ASHRAE Technology Award for innovative and sustainable design. Darwich designed a hybrid chilled beam variable air volume system that allowed the Segundo Services Center at the University of California to consume 35% less energy than mandated by California Title 24 and ensured $150,000 in utility incentives for the owner and the design team. One of Darwich’s more notable designs is the Jess Jackson Sustainable Building at the University of California. Located in Davis, Calif., the building is a net-zero energy building that is completely passive, using no active cooling mechanical equipment in an atmosphere where temperatures can reach as high as 105 F. Darwich’s consistent efforts for sustainability helped him become the second individual in the Middle East to become a LEED Accredited Professional. Darwich advocates for sustainability and healthy living in and out of work as he enjoys early-morning bike rides to the local farmers’ markets. Alongside his healthy obsession as a cheese maker, Darwich spends the weekends with his wife and two children.